It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It is the one
that is the most adaptable to change.

This wonderful quote of Leon C.
Megginson is still so relevant in our fast changing world. That's why
it's important for you to break your routines once in a while and be
innovative at work. In practice however we're pretty much stuck in our
habits.

Why is it so difficult to break our
routines? It's hard because our brain is programmed to recognize
patterns and to respond automatically. That's why you don't think
anymore on 'how to drive a car', 'which route to take to the office' or
'how to log in to your computer'.

The Indian business tycoon, Azim Premji once said: "When the rate of change outside is more than what is inside, be sure that the end is near." So
learning to break your patterns is essential in leading your
organization to change.

First of all, I like to suggest 5 simple
practical exercises to help you become aware of your pattern:

1. Try to write with your other hand, just for one minute. Do you notice how strange and difficult this actually is?
2. Take a different daily route to work. You will be amazed what you discover on your way.
3. Wear your watch on your other hand for a day. It will feel strange, which is a great reminder for you to be more flexible.
4. Go to your favorite restaurant. Now really look around and observe. You will see things you really never noticed before.
5.
Reach out to one new person per day at work during a week. Pick once
person a day, you never talked to before, reach out to him or her and
ask them what's on their mind.

Of course these exercises
only make you aware of how strong your habits are. Once you became aware
of them and your mind is open for change, you might take it a step
further.

You have similar habits in your work: in the way you design
your products/services, the way you deliver them to (internal) customers
and the way you work together with your colleagues.